In an answer to this question, it has been suggested to consider the following: $$(I+A)(\sum_{j=0}^n(-A)^j)$$
Through a series of algebraic operations, it can be shown that $\sum_{j=0}^n(-A)^j$ is in fact the inverse of $I+A$.
How would we have known to multiply by $\sum_{j=0}^n(-A)^j$? If there isn't an identity or formula that would indicate such a multiplication is a reasonable avenue of inquiry, then how would we otherwise derive $\sum_{j=0}^n(-A)^j$?